I am currently applying to open PGY-2 ortho spots and realize that I may not meet the PGY-1 requirements. I fall 2 months short for the "minor rotations" that are outlined in the ACGME requirements (last updated 2007).
1. Are there any more current updates regarding PGY-1 requirements for ortho residents that may be less strict?
2. Are there any provisions or exceptions made for programs that are newly formed or expanding and are taking outside residents into their program?
3. Is there any flexibility in these requirements for having completed a surgical internship - can certain rotations be swapped to count towards other things?
4. If a program offers me a spot and then I find out that I do not meet the requirements, is it possible to complete the PGY-1 rotations during other years of my training (e.g. use a month of a research block during PGY year X to do anesthesia...).
Alterations to the current PGY-1 requirements are probably coming but currently the old requirements are in effect.
It's always best to have as many of the mandatory PGY-1 rotations completed if transfering into a PGY-2 position. If you are missing a few they can be made up as a PGY2. The PD of the ortho program you enter writes a letter to the ABOS listing the rotations you have completed and your intended schedule as a PGY-2. Assuming it does not impact tremendously on your PGY-2 experience and the board accepts the rotations completed this is usually approved. In the end it is up to the program to accept you as a transfer. Some programs may have you repeat the 1st year
Jack Choueka, MD
Chairman Orthopedic Surgery
Maimonides Medical Center
